Rant Sports reported that the Vikings are looking for a linebacker and has inquired about free agent Brandon Spikes. Previously, Spikes played with the Buffalo Bills, helping their defense improve from 28th to 11th. He will be an asset to Minnesota's run defense, which was 25th in the 2014 NFL season. However, his high asking price, as well as history of injuries might deter the Vikings from investing in him. In his first three seasons with the New England Patriots, he missed 13 games. After his left the Patriots, he suffered a knee injury which kept him off the field.
Daily Norseman reported that the Vikings have close to $16 million salary cap space with 70 players signed. The team is looking at four players that can help their current situation. Spikes can be a good two-down linebacker but will be useless in passing situations. The Vikings are reportedly also looking at Stefen Wisniewski, Rolando McClain and Da'Quan Bowers. Wisniewski can help fill up the left guard position, which is currently one of Minnesota's weak points. McClain will be ideal as middle linebacker, although the team might be worried about his off-court issues. Bowers may work well with a coach like Mike Zimmer.
As for Adrian Peterson, Vikings officials initially declared that they will not trade the running back. However, there are talks that he might be released to the Dallas Cowboys. Previously, Peterson's agent said that his client wants out of Minnesota. Mike Zimmer also said that Peterson is still under contract for three more years, valued at $45 million, and that the team plans to have him back. None of the amount is guaranteed, however, so Peterson is likely to earn over $12 million in the upcoming season. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones might be willing to spend much for Peterson, because of his 86 touchdowns and 10,190 rushed yards. The Arizona Cardinals are also allegedly interested in acquiring Peterson.
Based on a report by Dallas News, if the Vikings do decide to let go of Peterson, they will require a solid running back in exchange, and both the Cowboys and Cardinals can offer that. The Cowboys have already acquired Greg Hardy, who would be great with someone like Peterson on the field. The Vikings and Cowboys are expected to continue communicating throughout the offseason.